But under new guidelines being considered by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) forces would be prevented from making the information public.

The situation can also lead to widespread speculation appearing on the internet and resulting in entirely innocent people being implicated in high profile cases.

Critics argue that had Jimmy Savile’s arrest for suspected child abuse been publicised widely 2009 more victims may have come forward and he could have been brought to justice before his death.

Trevor Sterling, one of the lawyers representing Savile’s victims, said: “It is difficult to strike a balance but if someone like Savile’s name is not published victims of sexual abuse would not have the confidence to come forward.”

Andy Trotter, chief constable of the British Transport Police and the lead officer for media policy for ACPO, said different forces operated different policies which was unsatisfactory.

He said: “We are suggesting that people who have been arrested should not be named and only the briefest of details should be given.

“We are weighing up the need to be open and transparent with the rights of the individuals concerned and the draft guidance will contain the view that people are not named.”

But he denied that the policy amounted to secret justice and said the police remained committed to the working with journalists.